TFP Bureau, New Delhi, October 27, 2025: The Indian Navy’s indigenously built Survey Vessel (Large) Ikshak is set to be formally commissioned at the Naval Base in Kochi on November 6, 2025, in a grand ceremony to be presided over by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff. The induction of Ikshak marks a significant step forward in India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its hydrographic capabilities and enhance self-reliance in naval shipbuilding under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
As the third vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) series, Ikshak embodies India’s growing maritime prowess and its commitment to indigenization. The ship has been constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and the Warship Overseeing Team (Kolkata). With over 80% indigenous content, Ikshak stands as a proud example of collaboration between GRSE and Indian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), symbolizing India’s technological advancement and industrial strength in the defense sector.
Designed primarily for hydrographic survey operations, Ikshak will play a crucial role in charting and mapping the vast Indian coastline and maritime zones, thereby ensuring navigational safety for both military and commercial vessels. The ship is equipped with advanced surveying equipment, including multi-beam echo sounders, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and side-scan sonars, which will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to conduct detailed oceanographic and hydrographic surveys.
In addition to its core mission, Ikshak has been designed for dual-role functionality, capable of providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in times of crisis. The ship can also serve as a floating hospital, equipped to deliver critical care and emergency medical aid during natural disasters or maritime contingencies.
Reflecting the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity, Ikshak is the first vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) class to feature dedicated accommodation and facilities for women officers and sailors. This inclusion highlights the Navy’s progressive approach to building a modern, future-ready fleet that values equal participation across all ranks and duties.
The name Ikshak, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “The Guide,” symbolizes the ship’s purpose — to chart the unknown seas, ensure safe navigation, and strengthen India’s maritime capabilities.
The commissioning of Ikshak follows the successful induction of its sister ships Sandhayak and Nirdeshak, further consolidating the Indian Navy’s position as a regional leader in hydrographic operations. Once operational, Ikshak will enhance India’s maritime domain awareness and contribute to global hydrographic efforts, fostering safer and more efficient maritime trade routes.
The addition of Ikshak to the Navy’s fleet represents another step in realizing the vision of a technologically advanced, self-reliant maritime force — one that combines innovation, precision, and service to safeguard India’s maritime interests.
